U.S. patent application number 14/236106 was filed with the patent office on 2014-06-19 for imaging device.
This patent application is currently assigned to PANASONIC CORPORATION. The applicant listed for this patent is PANASONIC CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Yasuyuki Hirouchi, Takashi Ishihara, Mitsuru Satou, Hideyuki Yoshino.
Application Number | 20140168470 14/236106 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 49623496 |
Filed Date | 2014-06-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140168470 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Yoshino; Hideyuki ; et
al. |
June 19, 2014 |
IMAGING DEVICE
Abstract
An imaging device includes: an imaging portion; a memory capable
of storing images imaged by the imaging portion; a display portion;
and a touch panel arranged to overlap with the display portion and
capable of detecting a distance to an indicator. When the distance
is equal to or less than a first distance and more than a second
distance less than the first distance, the memory stores the images
at predetermined time intervals. Then, when the distance becomes
equal to or less than the second distance and equal to or more than
0, the display portion displays the image that is stored in the
memory before the distance becomes equal to or less than the second
distance and equal to or more than 0.
Inventors: |
Yoshino; Hideyuki;
(Kanagawa, JP) ; Ishihara; Takashi; (Kanagawa,
JP) ; Satou; Mitsuru; (Kanagawa, JP) ;
Hirouchi; Yasuyuki; (Miyagi, JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
PANASONIC CORPORATION |
Osaka |
|
JP |
|
|
Assignee: |
PANASONIC CORPORATION
Osaka
JP
|
Family ID: |
49623496 |
Appl. No.: |
14/236106 |
Filed: |
May 22, 2013 |
PCT Filed: |
May 22, 2013 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/JP2013/003259 |
371 Date: |
January 30, 2014 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
348/231.7 ;
348/231.99; 348/333.01 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 5/23216 20130101;
H04N 5/232945 20180801; H04N 5/23212 20130101; H04N 5/232933
20180801; G06F 3/0488 20130101; G03B 17/18 20130101; H04N 5/23248
20130101; H04N 5/23293 20130101; H04N 5/232127 20180801; G03B 17/38
20130101; G06F 2203/04101 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
348/231.7 ;
348/231.99; 348/333.01 |
International
Class: |
H04N 5/232 20060101
H04N005/232 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
May 24, 2012 |
JP |
2012-118921 |
Jul 3, 2012 |
JP |
2012-149601 |
Claims
1. An imaging device comprising: an imaging portion; a memory
capable of storing images imaged by the imaging portion; a display
portion; and a touch panel arranged to overlap with the display
portion and capable of detecting a distance to an indicator,
wherein when the distance is equal to or less than a first distance
and more than a second distance less than the first distance, the
memory stores the images at predetermined time intervals, then,
when the distance becomes equal to or less than the second distance
and equal to or more than 0, the display portion displays the image
that is stored in the memory before the distance becomes equal to
or less than the second distance and equal to or more than 0.
2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein when the
distance is equal to or less than the second distance and equal to
or more than 0, the memory stops storing the images at the
predetermined time intervals.
3. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the memory is
set as a first memory, the imaging device is capable of mounting a
second memory, and when the distance is equal to or less than the
second distance and equal to or more than 0, an image, which is
stored in the first memory before the distance is equal to or less
than the second distance and equal to or more than 0, can be stored
in the second memory.
4. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the second
distance is 0.
5. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the indicator
is a finger or a pen.
6. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein when the
distance is at least equal to or less than the first distance and
larger than the second distance being smaller than the first
distance, the display portion displays an image imaged by the
imaging portion.
7. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the display
portion displays a predetermined icon.
8. An imaging method that can be utilized in an imaging device
which includes an imaging portion, a memory capable of storing
images imaged by the imaging portion, a display portion, and a
touch panel arranged to overlap with the display portion and
capable of detecting a distance to an indicator, the imaging method
comprising; a step of storing the images at predetermined time
intervals in the memory when the distance is equal to or less than
the first distance and larger than a second distance which is less
than the first distance; and a step of displaying in the display
portion, when the distance becomes equal to or less than the second
distance and equal to or more than 0, the image which is stored in
the memory before the distance becomes equal to or less than the
second distance and equal to or more than 0.
9. An imaging device comprising: an imaging portion; a display
portion; and a touch panel arranged to overlap with the display
portion and capable of detecting a distance to an indicator,
wherein when the distance is equal to or less than the first
distance and larger than a second distance which is less than the
first distance, execution of a predetermined function is started,
then, when the distance becomes equal to or less than the second
distance and equal to or more than 0, the display portion displays
the image imaged by the imaging portion.
10. The imaging device according to claim 9, wherein the
predetermined function is at least one of focus-adjustment,
exposure-adjustment, and white-balancing.
11. The imaging device according to claim 9, wherein when the
distance is equal to or less than the first distance and larger
than the second distance being less than the first distance, the
execution of the predetermined function on a predetermined area in
the display portion is started.
12. The imaging device according to claim 9, wherein when the
distance is equal to or less than the first distance and larger
than the second distance being less than the first distance, the
execution of the predetermined function on an area corresponding to
the indicator in the display portion is started.
13. The imaging device according to claim 9, comprising a memory,
wherein when the distance becomes equal to or less than the second
distance and equal or larger than 0, the memory stores an image
imaged by the imaging portion
14. The imaging device according to claim 9, wherein the second
distance is 0.
15. The imaging device according to claim 9, wherein the indicator
is a finger or a pen.
16. An imaging method that can be utilized in an imaging device
which includes an imaging portion, a display portion, and a touch
panel arranged to overlap with the display portion and capable of
detecting a distance to an indicator, the imaging method
comprising: a step of starting execution of a predetermined
function when the distance is equal to or less than the first
distance and larger than a second distance less than the first
distance; and a step of displaying the image captured by the
imaging portion in the display portion when the distance becomes
equal to or less than the second distance and equal to or more than
0.
17. An imaging device comprising: an imaging portion capable of
capturing an image; a display portion; and a touch panel arranged
to overlap with the display portion and capable of detecting a
distance to an indicator, wherein when, for a predetermined time,
the distance is equal to or less than the first distance and larger
than the second distance being less than the first distance, the
display portion displays the image.
18. The imaging device according to claim 17 comprising a memory,
wherein when, for a predetermined time, the distance is equal to or
less than the first distance and larger than the second distance
being less than the first distance, the display portion displays
the image and the memory stores the image.
19. The imaging device according to claim 18, wherein the memory is
detachably mounted.
20. The imaging device according to claim 17, wherein when the
distance is equal to or less than the first distance and larger
than the second distance being less than the first distance, the
display portion indicates that image-capturing timing is
approaching.
21. The imaging device according to claim 20, wherein it is
schematically indicated that the image-capturing timing is
approaching.
22. An imaging method that can be utilized in an imaging device
which includes an imaging portion capable of imaging an image, a
display portion, and a touch panel arranged to overlap with the
display portion and capable of detecting a distance to an
indicator, the imaging method comprising displaying the image in
the display portion when, for a predetermined time, the distance is
equal to or less than the first distance and larger than the second
distance being less than the first distance.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to an imaging device suitable
for use in portable information terminals, such as a mobile phone,
a smartphone, and a tablet, each of which is equipped with a touch
panel.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] In recent years, the above portable information terminals
each equipped with a touch panel have become widespread. Some
portable information terminals of this type are each equipped with
an imaging device (i.e., a camera). Shutter systems adopted by the
imaging devices include mechanical ones and electrical ones. The
electrical shutter systems include one type configured to release a
shutter by displaying a shutter-icon on a display screen and
depressing (or touching) the shutter-icon, and another type
configured to release the shutter by touching a part of an object
displayed on a display screen. On the other hand, one of the
shutter systems of the mechanical type is configured to release the
shutter by depressing a mechanical shutter button.
[0003] When image-capturing is performed by a portable information
terminal equipped with an imaging device, camera shake may occur
due to vibration and inclination of a casing at depression of a
shutter. Particularly, portable information terminals are
manufactured compact and light from view point of portability.
Accordingly, camera shake may occur even only by touching a touch
panel. Camera shake occurs in any of the above three types of
shutter systems.
[0004] One example of reducing camera shake at release of a shutter
is described in PTL 1. Camera equipment described in PTL 1 is
adapted to generate a signal for capturing a captured image into a
recording medium in a state of half-pushing a shutter.
PRIOR ART DOCUMENT
Patent Literature
[0005] PTL 1: JP-A-2012-037902
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Problems that the Invention is to Solve
[0006] Meanwhile, touch panels include an electrostatic-capacitance
touch panel enabling an operation (hereinafter referred to as a
"hovering operation") to be performed at a predetermined range of
height without touching a panel surface with a finger. Using such a
type of a touch panel enables release of a shutter without touching
a panel surface. However, this makes it difficult to know at what
position in the air the shutter is located. There is a risk of
involuntarily releasing the shutter. Thus, even when an
electrostatic-capacitance touch panel is used, it is necessary to
make contact with (i.e., touch) the touch panel when releasing the
shutter. Naturally, camera shake is caused by touching the touch
panel.
[0007] The invention is accomplished in view of such circumstances
and aims at providing an imaging device equipped with an
electrostatic-capacitance touch panel, which can capture a
camera-shake-free image.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0008] An imaging device according to the invention includes an
imaging portion, a memory capable of storing images imaged by the
imaging portion, a display portion, and a touch panel arranged to
overlap with the display portion and capable of detecting a
distance to an indicator. When the distance is equal to or less
than a first distance and more than a second distance less than the
first distance, the memory stores the images at predetermined time
intervals. Then, when the distance becomes equal to or less than
the second distance and equal to or more than 0, the display
portion displays the image that is stored in the memory before the
distance becomes equal to or less than the second distance and
equal to or more than 0.
[0009] According to the above configuration, when the distance
between the indicator and the touch panel is larger than the second
distance and equal to or less than the first distance, images
imaged by the imaging portion are stored in the memory at the
predetermined time intervals. Then, when the distance becomes equal
to or less than the second distance and equal to or more than 0, an
image, which is stored in the memory before the distance becomes
such a value, is read from the memory and displayed in the display
portion. Thus, a camera-shake-free image can be captured.
[0010] According to the above configuration, when the distance is
equal to or less than the second distance and equal to or more than
0, the memory stops storing the images at the predetermined time
intervals.
[0011] According to the above configuration, when the distance
between the indicator and the touch panel becomes equal to or less
than the second distance and equal to or more than 0, storing a new
image is not performed. Thus, an image in which camera shake occurs
is not captured.
[0012] In the above configuration, the memory is set as a first
memory. The apparatus can be equipped with a second memory. When
the distance is equal to or less than the second distance and equal
to or more than 0, an image, which is stored in the first memory
before the distance is equal to or less than the second distance
and equal to or more than 0, can be stored in the second
memory.
[0013] According to the above configuration, when the distance
between the indicator and the touch panel is equal to or less than
the second distance and equal to or more than 0, an image, the
image, which is stored in the first memory before the distance
becomes such a value, is stored in the second memory. Then, the
only camera-shake-free image can be captured.
[0014] In the above configuration, the second distance is 0.
[0015] According to the above configuration, the second distance is
set to be 0, so that when the indicator touches the touch panel, no
new image is stored from then on and an image stored in the memory
before the indicator touches the touch panel is displayed.
[0016] In the above configuration, the indicator is a finger or a
pen.
[0017] In the above configuration, when the distance is at least
equal to or less than the first distance and larger than the second
distance being smaller than the first distance, the display portion
displays an image imaged by the imaging portion.
[0018] According to the above configuration, the distance between
the indicator and the touch panel is equal to or less than the
first distance and larger than the second distance, an image imaged
by the imaging portion is displayed. Thus, an image (i.e., a
preview image), which is present before captured, can be
checked.
[0019] In the above configuration, the display portion displays a
predetermined icon.
[0020] According to the above configuration, the predetermined icon
is used as a shutter-icon. Thus, the shutter can be released by
touching the shutter-icon.
[0021] An imaging method according to the invention is an imaging
method that can be utilized in an imaging device which includes an
imaging portion, a memory capable of storing images imaged by the
imaging portion, a display portion, and a touch panel arranged to
overlap with the display portion and capable of detecting a
distance to an indicator. The imaging method includes a step of
making the memory store the images at predetermined time intervals
when the distance is equal to or less than the first distance and
larger than a second distance which is less than the first
distance, and a step of making, when the distance becomes equal to
or less than the second distance and equal to or more than 0, the
display portion display the image which is stored in the memory
before the distance becomes equal to or less than the second
distance and equal to or more than 0.
[0022] According to the above method, when the distance between the
indicator and the touch panel is larger than the second distance
and equal to or less than the first distance, images imaged in the
imaging portion are stored in the memory at predetermined time
intervals. Then, when the distance becomes equal to or less than
the second distance and equal to or more than 0, the image stored
in the memory before the distance becomes such a value is read from
the memory and displayed in the display portion. Thus, a
camera-shake-free image can be captured.
[0023] An imaging device according to the invention includes an
imaging portion, a display portion, and a touch panel arranged to
overlap with the display portion and capable of detecting a
distance to an indicator. When the distance is equal to or less
than the first distance and larger than a second distance which is
less than the first distance, execution of a predetermined function
is started. Then, when the distance becomes equal to or less than
the second distance and equal to or more than 0, the display
portion displays the image imaged by the imaging portion.
[0024] According to the above configuration, when the distance
between the touch panel and the indicator is equal to or less than
the first distance and larger than the second distance being
smaller than the first distance, a predetermined function is
executed. Then, when the distance between the touch panel and the
indicator becomes equal to or less than the second distance and
equal to or more than 0, the imaged image is displayed.
[0025] Incidentally, assuming that, e.g., a focus-adjustment
function is employed as the predetermined function, and that a
finger is used as the indicator, the focus-adjustment is performed
in a case where the distance between the touch panel and the finger
is equal to or less than the first distance and larger than the
second distance being less than the first distance. Then, when the
distance between the touch panel and the finger becomes equal to or
less than the second distance and equal to or more than 0, the
imaged image is displayed. Accordingly, while the finger is present
in a range where the distance is larger than the second distance
and equal to or less than the first distance, focus-adjustment is
performed. Thus, image-capturing can be performed at the best
timing (in other words, image-capturing can be achieved without
missing an image-capturing opportunity), as compared with the case
of performing focus-adjustment when image-capturing is performed
(i.e., the shutter is released).
[0026] In the above configuration, the predetermined function is at
least one of focus-adjustment, exposure-adjustment, and
white-balancing.
[0027] According to the above configuration, at least one of
focus-adjustment, exposure-adjustment, and white-balancing is
performed before image-capturing is performed. Consequently,
image-capturing can be performed at the best timing, as compared
with the case of performing focus-adjustment or the like when
image-capturing is performed.
[0028] In the above configuration, when the distance is equal to or
less than the first distance and larger than the second distance
being less than the first distance, the execution of the
predetermined function on a predetermined area in the display
portion is started.
[0029] According to the above configuration, when the distance
between the touch panel and the indicator is equal to or less than
the first distance and larger than the second distance being less
than the first distance, the execution of the predetermined
function on a predetermined area in the display portion is
started.
[0030] Incidentally, assuming that, e.g., the function of
performing focus-adjustment is employed as the predetermined
function, that a finger is used as the indicator, and that the
center of an image is the predetermined area, when the distance
between the touch panel and the finger is equal to or less than the
first distance, and larger than the second distance being less than
the first distance, focus-adjustment is performed at the center of
an image. Accordingly, while the finger is present in a range where
the distance is larger than the second distance and equal to or
less than the first distance, focus-adjustment is performed onto a
predetermined area. Thus, imaging adapted to bring a predetermined
area into focus can be performed.
[0031] In the above configuration, when the distance is equal to or
less than the first distance and larger than the second distance
being less than the first distance, the execution of the
predetermined function on an area corresponding to the indicator in
the display portion is started.
[0032] According to the above configuration, when the distance
between the touch panel and the indicator is equal to or less than
the first distance and larger than the second distance being less
than the first distance, the execution of the predetermined
function onto an area corresponding to the indicator in the display
portion is started.
[0033] Incidentally, assuming that the predetermined function is,
e.g., the function of performing focus-adjustment, and the
indicator is a finger, when the distance between the touch panel
and the finger is equal to or less than the first distance and
larger than the second distance being smaller than the first
distance, focus-adjustment is performed on an area designated by
the finger. Accordingly, while the finger is present in a range
where the distance is larger than the second distance and equal to
or less than the first distance, the focus-adjustment is performed
on the area designated by the indicator. Thus, imaging adapted to
bring the area designated by the indicator into focus can be
performed.
[0034] In the above configuration, the memory is included. When the
distance becomes equal to or less than the second distance and
equal or larger than 0, the memory stores an image imaged by the
imaging portion.
[0035] According to the above configuration, the imaged image can
be stored in the memory.
[0036] In the above configuration, the second distance is 0.
[0037] According to the above configuration, image-capturing is
performed by making the indicator touch the touch panel.
[0038] In the above configuration, the indicator is a finger or a
pen.
[0039] An imaging method according to the invention is an imaging
method that can be utilized in an imaging device which includes an
imaging portion, a display portion, and a touch panel arranged to
overlap with the display portion and capable of detecting a
distance to an indicator. The imaging method includes a step of
starting execution of a predetermined function when the distance is
equal to or less than the first distance and larger than a second
distance less than the first distance, and a step of making the
display portion display the image captured by the imaging portion
when the distance becomes then equal to or less than the second
distance and equal to or more than 0.
[0040] According to the above method, the distance between the
touch panel and the indicator is equal to or less than the first
distance and larger than the second distance being smaller than the
first distance, the predetermined function is executed. Then, when
the distance between the indicator and the touch panel becomes
equal or less than the second distance and equal to or more than 0,
the captured image is displayed.
[0041] Incidentally, assuming that, e.g., a focus-adjustment
function is employed as the predetermined function, and that a
finger is used as the indicator, the focus-adjustment is performed
in a case where the distance between the touch panel and the finger
is equal to or less than the first distance and larger than the
second distance being less than the first distance. Then, when the
distance between the touch panel and the finger becomes equal to or
less than the second distance and equal to or more than 0, the
captured image is displayed. Accordingly, while the finger is
present in a range where the distance is larger than the second
distance and equal to or less than the first distance,
focus-adjustment is performed. Thus, image-capturing can be
performed at the best timing (in other words, image-capturing can
be achieved without missing an image-capturing opportunity), as
compared with the case of performing focus-adjustment when
image-capturing is performed (i.e., the shutter is released).
[0042] An imaging device according to the invention includes an
imaging portion capable of capturing an image, a display portion,
and a touch panel arranged to overlap with the display portion and
capable of detecting a distance to an indicator. If, for a
predetermined time, the distance is equal to or less than the first
distance and larger than the second distance being less than the
first distance, the display portion displays the image.
[0043] According to the above configuration, if, for a
predetermined time, the distance between the touch panel and the
indicator is equal to or less than the first distance and larger
than the second distance being less than the first distance, the
imaged image is displayed. Accordingly, image-capturing is
performed only by putting, for a predetermined time, the indicator
in a range where the distance from the touch panel is larger than
the second distance and equal to or less than the first distance.
Consequently, operability can be improved.
[0044] In the above configuration, the memory is included. If, for
a predetermined time, the distance is equal to or less than the
first distance and larger than the second distance being less than
the first distance, the display portion displays the image. In
addition, the memory stores the image.
[0045] According to the above configuration, the imaged image can
be stored in the memory.
[0046] In the configuration, the memory is detachably mounted.
[0047] According to the above configuration, the memory is made
portable and replaceable.
[0048] In the configuration, when the distance is equal to or less
than the first distance and larger than the second distance being
less than the first distance, the display portion indicates that
image-capturing timing is approaching.
[0049] According to the above configuration, when the distance
between the touch panel and the indicator is equal to or less than
the first distance and larger than the second distance being
smaller than the first distance, it is indicated that
image-capturing timing is approaching. Thus, a user can know
image-capturing timing and perform image-capturing at the best
timing.
[0050] In the above configuration, it is schematically indicated
that the image-capturing timing is approaching.
[0051] According to the above configuration, a user can know
image-capturing timing and perform image-capturing at the best
timing.
[0052] An imaging method according to the invention is an imaging
method that can be utilized in an imaging device which includes an
imaging portion capable of imaging an image, a display portion, and
a touch panel arranged to overlap with the display portion and
capable of detecting a distance to an indicator. If, for a
predetermined time, the distance is equal to or less than the first
distance and larger than the second distance being less than the
first distance, the display portion displays the image.
[0053] According to the above method, if, for a predetermined time,
the distance is equal to or less than the first distance and larger
than the second distance being less than the first distance, the
captured image is displayed. Accordingly, image-capturing is
performed only by putting, for a predetermined time, the indicator
in a range where the distance from the touch panel is larger than
the second distance and equal to or less than the first distance.
Consequently, operability can be improved.
Advantages of the Invention
[0054] According to the invention, an imaging device equipped with
an electrostatic-capacitance touch panel can capture a
camera-shake-free image.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0055] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic
configuration of an imaging device according to a first embodiment
of the invention.
[0056] FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating a finger detection method
performed in a touch panel controller of the imaging device
illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0057] FIG. 3 is a graph illustrating temporal change of a distance
between a touch panel portion of the imaging device illustrated in
FIG. 1 and a finger.
[0058] Sections (a) and (b) of FIG. 4 are diagrams each
illustrating a manner of capturing an image by a smartphone
equipped with the imaging device illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0059] FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically illustrating imaged-image
data stored in a ring buffer of the imaging device illustrated in
FIG. 1.
[0060] FIG. 6 is a schematically illustrating a state of capturing
out an image imaged several pieces before another image imaged when
a shutter-icon is depressed in the imaging device illustrated in
FIG. 1.
[0061] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating processing from start of
a camera function of the imaging device illustrated in FIG. 1 to
display of an imaged image.
[0062] Sections (a) and (b) of FIG. 8 are diagrams each
illustrating a manner of capturing an image by a smartphone
equipped with an imaging device according to a second embodiment of
the invention.
[0063] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating processing from start of
a camera function of the imaging device illustrated in Sections (a)
and (b) of FIG. 8 to display of an imaged image.
[0064] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic
configuration of an imaging device according to a third embodiment
of the invention.
[0065] Sections (a) and (b) of FIG. 11 are diagrams each
illustrating a manner of capturing an image by a smartphone
equipped with the imaging device illustrated in FIG. 10.
[0066] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating processing from start of
a camera function of the imaging device illustrated in FIG. 10 to
storage of a captured image.
[0067] Sections (a) and (b) of FIG. 13 are diagrams each
illustrating a manner of capturing an image by a smartphone
equipped with an imaging device according to a fourth embodiment of
the invention.
[0068] FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating processing from start of
a camera function of the imaging device according to the fourth
embodiment of the invention to storage of a captured image.
[0069] FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic
configuration of an imaging device according to a fifth embodiment
of the invention.
[0070] Sections (a) to (d) of FIG. 16 are diagrams illustrating an
example of schematically indicating that image-capturing timing is
approaching.
[0071] FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating processing from reset of
a timer of the imaging device illustrated in FIG. 15 to storage of
a captured image.
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0072] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments for carrying out the
invention are described with reference to the
accompanying-drawings.
First Embodiment
[0073] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic
configuration of an imaging device according to a first embodiment
of the invention. The imaging device 1 according to the present
embodiment of the invention is mounted in a portable wireless
device called a smartphone. A communicative part of the imaging
device, which functions as a wireless device, is omitted.
[0074] In FIG. 1, the imaging device 1 according to the present
embodiment includes a touch panel portion 2, a touch panel
controller 3, a power-supply-and-control portion 4, a coordinate
output portion 5, a camera (imaging portion) 6, a camera-imaged
image processing portion 7, a ring buffer (memory (particularly,
first memory)) 8, a memory card (second memory) 9, an image display
control portion 10, and a liquid crystal portion (display portion)
11. In the imaging device 1 according to the present embodiment,
the touch panel portion 2 and the touch panel controller 3
configure a touch panel module (touch panel) 15.
[0075] The touch panel controller 3, the power-supply-and-control
portion 4, the coordinate output portion 5 and the camera-imaged
image processing portion 7 are configured by a central processing
unit (CPU), a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM),
and an interface circuit. The ROM stores a program for controlling
the CPU. The RAM is used in an operation of the CPU. Apparently,
each of the touch panel controller 3, the power-supply-and-control
portion 4, the coordinate output portion 5, and the camera-imaged
image processing portion 7 can be a single unit.
[0076] The touch panel module 15 employs an
electrostatic-capacitance system that enables an operation
("hovering operation") to be performed at a predetermined range of
height without touching a panel surface with a finger. The touch
panel portion 2 is arranged to overlap with the liquid crystal
portion 11. The touch panel portion 2 includes a transmission
electrode and a reception electrode (not shown), which are arranged
under a bottom surface of a plate-like dielectric to be spaced each
other. A driving signal based on a transmission signal output from
the touch panel controller 3 is applied to the transmission
electrode. The application of the driving signal to the
transmission electrode results in generation of an electric field
from the transmission electrode. When an indicator (such as a
finger or a pen (according to the present embodiment, the indicator
is assumed to be a finger)) enters the electric field, the number
of lines of electric force between the transmission electrode and
the reception electrode decreases. Change in the number of lines of
electric force appears as a change of electric-charge of the
reception electrode. A reception signal according to the change of
electric-charge of the reception electrode is output to the touch
panel controller 3. The touch panel controller gives and receives
control signals to and from the power-supply-and-control portion 4
and outputs transmission signals to the touch panel portion 2. The
touch panel controller 3 also receives reception signals output
from the touch panel portion 2, detects a finger from the received
reception signals, and outputs a coordinate signal representing a
position of the detected finger to the coordinate output portion
5.
[0077] FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating a finger detection method
performed in the touch panel controller 3. In FIG. 2, the touch
panel controller 3 detects a finger 20 when a distance Zb (or Zc)
according to a level of a reception signal output from the touch
panel portion 2 (i.e., a distance from the finger 20 to the touch
panel portion 2) is between a first distance Z1 and a second
distance Z0. At that time, the distance is calculated as an average
value within a predetermined time in view of a shake of a finger
20. FIG. 3 is a graph illustrating temporal change of the distance
between the finger 20 and the touch panel portion 2. As illustrated
in FIG. 3, an average value of the distance is calculated between a
first distance Z1 and a second distance Z0 in a time from a moment
t1 to a moment t2. When the average value of the distance is
between the first distance Z1 and the second distance Z0, the
apparatus detects the finger 20. Incidentally, the above distance
Zb is a distance assumed in case of performing a one-hand
operation. The above distance Zc is a distance assumed in case of
performing a two-hand operation. Details of the distances Zb and Zc
are described below.
[0078] Referring back to FIG. 1, the power-supply-and-control
portion 4 gives and receives control signals to and from the touch
panel controller 3 and supplies a power-supply voltage to each part
of the apparatus. The coordinate output portion 5 captures in
coordinate signals output from the touch panel controller 3 and
outputs the coordinate signal to the camera-imaged image processing
portion 7. In this case, the coordinate signal output from the
touch panel controller 3 indicates a position (X, Y, Z) of a finger
on the touch panel portion 2. The camera 6 captures an image of an
object according to a control signal output from the camera-imaged
image processing portion 7 and outputs imaged-image data to the
camera-imaged image processing portion 7.
[0079] The camera-imaged image processing portion 7 outputs, to the
camera 6, control signals for camera-control operations, such as
focusing and white-balancing, and receives imaged-image data output
from the camera 6. The camera-imaged image processing portion 7
determines finger proximity from a coordinate signal corresponding
to Z-axis direction among coordinate signals output from the
coordinate output portion 5. Besides, the camera-imaged image
processing portion 7 determines whether a finger is present in
midair of a shutter-icon (i.e., a predetermined icon displayed at a
predetermined location on the liquid crystal portion 11 during the
camera operates). When the finger is present in midair (this is
referred to as "shutter-icon midair") of the shutter-icon, the
camera-imaged image processing portion 7 determines a distance to
the finger. That is, a distance between the touch panel portion 2
and the finger is determined. When the distance is equal to or less
than a first distance and more than a second distance that is less
than the first distance, the camera-imaged image processing portion
7 performs focus-adjustment of the camera 6. Then, the
camera-imaged image processing portion 7 makes the ring buffer 8
store, at predetermined time intervals, imaged-image data output
from the camera 6. The camera-imaged image processing portion 7
also outputs imaged-image data to the image display control portion
10.
[0080] After that, when the distance between the touch panel
portion 2 and the finger is equal to or less than the second
distance and equal to or more than 0, the camera-imaged image
processing portion 7 determines that the shutter-icon is depressed
(i.e., the shutter is released). Thus, the camera-imaged image
processing portion 7 finishes capturing the imaged-image data into
the ring buffer 8. Then, the camera-imaged image processing portion
7 extracts one (i.e., an image before the above distance is equal
to or less than the second distance, and equal to or more than 0)
of images stored in the ring buffer 8, outputs the extracted image
to the memory card 9, and makes the memory card 9 store the
extracted image. Incidentally, when a finger touches the
shutter-icon, the distance between the touch panel portion 2 and
the finger is 0.
[0081] Sections (a) and (B) of FIG. 4 are diagrams each
illustrating a manner of capturing an image by a smartphone 30
equipped with the imaging device 1 according to the present
embodiment. Section (a) illustrates a case where the finger 20 is
present in midair of the shutter-icon 31. Section (b) illustrates a
case where the finger 20 touches the shutter-icon 31. Incidentally,
FIG. 4 illustrates the case of performing a one-hand operation on
the smartphone 30. Thus, the distance for detecting the finger 20
is set to be Zb. In the case of performing a one-hand operation,
the finger 20 is closer to the touch panel portion 2 than the
finger 20 in the case of performing a two-hand operation.
Therefore, in order to set a low reaction distance, the distance is
set at Zb (<Zc). An object 40 is displayed at the center of a
screen of the liquid crystal portion 11.
[0082] FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically illustrating imaged-image
data stored in the ring buffer 8. As illustrated in FIG. 5, plural
captured-images D.sub.1, D.sub.2, . . . D.sub.n-1, D.sub.n obtained
at predetermined time intervals are stored in the ring buffer 8.
FIG. 6 is a schematically illustrating a state of capturing out an
image imaged several pieces before another image imaged when the
shutter-icon 31 is depressed (or touched). As illustrated in FIG.
6, an imaged-image D.sub.n-5 stored several pieces before the image
D.sub.n imaged upon depressing the shutter-icon 31 is captured out.
When the shutter-icon 31 is depressed, camera shake tends to occur.
Thus, a camera-shake-free captured-image can be obtained by
acquiring an imaged-image stored several pieces before another
imaged-image obtained when the shutter-icon 31 is depressed.
[0083] Referring back to FIG. 1, the image display control portion
10 gives and receives control signals to and from the liquid
crystal portion 11 and generates image signals from imaged-image
data output from the camera-imaged image processing portion 7.
Then, the image display control portion 10 outputs the generated
image signals to the liquid crystal portion 11 to display a preview
image. The image display control portion 10 also reads an image
(i.e., an image before the distance between the touch panel portion
2 and the finger becomes equal to or less than the second distance
and equal to or more than 0) stored in the memory card 9 and
generates an image signal. Then, the image display control portion
10 outputs the generated image signal to the liquid crystal portion
11 to display the read image. The liquid crystal portion 11 has a
liquid crystal display (LCD). However, the liquid crystal portion
11 may have an organic electro-luminescence (EL) display instead of
LCD. A volatile memory, such as a DRAM, is used as the ring buffer
8. A nonvolatile memory, such as a flash memory, is used as the
memory card 9. Apparently, the memory card 9 is detachably attached
to the body of the apparatus.
[0084] Next, the imaging device 1 according to the present
embodiment is described hereinafter.
[0085] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating processing from start of
a camera function of the imaging device 1 according to the present
embodiment to display of a captured image. In FIG. 7, the
camera-imaged image processing portion 7 starts a camera function
in step S1. When starting the camera function, in step S2, the
camera-imaged image processing portion 7 determines whether a
user's finger 20 is present in midair of the shutter-icon 31 and
whether the distance between the touch panel portion 2 and the
finger 20 is Zb. When the conditions are not satisfied in the
determination, the determination is repeated until the conditions
are satisfied. When the conditions are satisfied, in step S3, the
camera-imaged image processing portion 7 performs focus-adjustment
on the camera 6 and starts capturing the image into the ring buffer
8.
[0086] After starting capturing the image, in step S4, the
camera-imaged image processing portion 7 determines whether the
finger 20 touches the shutter-icon 31. When the shutter-icon 31 is
not touched, the present determination is repeated until the
shutter-icon 31 is touched. When touched, in step S5, capturing the
images is finished, and the image just before the finger 20 touches
the shutter-icon 31 (e.g., the image imaged several pieces before
the image imaged closest to timing of touching the shutter-icon 31)
is extracted. Then, in step S6, the extracted image is stored in
the memory card 9. When the extracted image is stored in the memory
card 9, in step S7, the image display control portion 10 reads this
image from the memory card 9 and displays the read image on the
liquid crystal portion 11. After the captured image is displayed,
the present processing is finished.
[0087] Thus, in the imaging device 1 according to the first
embodiment, when the distance between the touch panel portion 2 and
the finger 20 serving as the indicator is larger than the second
distance, and equal to or smaller than the first distance, the
images captured by the camera 6 are stored in the ring buffer 8 at
predetermined time intervals. Then, when the distance between the
finger 20 and the touch panel portion 2 becomes equal to or less
than the second distance and also becomes equal to or more than 0,
storing the images in the ring buffer 8 is stopped. One piece of
the images stored in the ring buffer 8 is extracted and displayed
on the liquid crystal portion 11. Accordingly, camera-shake-free
images can be captured.
[0088] When the distance between the finger 20 and the touch panel
portion 2 is equal to or smaller than the first distance and larger
than the second distance, the image imaged by the camera 6 is
displayed. Thus, an image (i.e., a preview image) before captured
can be checked.
[0089] Although a program describing processing illustrated in the
flowchart of FIG. 7 is stored in ROM in the imaging device 1
according to the first embodiment, the imaging device 1 may be
configured such that the program can be distributed by being stored
into a storage medium such as a magnetic disk, an optical disc, a
magneto-optical disc, and a flash memory or that the program can be
downloaded utilizing an electric telecommunication line by being
stored in a server (not shown) on a network such as the
Internet.
Second Embodiment
[0090] Sections (a) and (b) of FIG. 8 are diagrams each
illustrating a manner of capturing an image by a smartphone
equipped with an imaging device according to a second embodiment of
the invention. In FIG. 8, each part common to the above apparatuses
illustrated in Sections (a) and (b) of FIG. 8 is designated with a
same reference numeral as used to a corresponding part of the
imaging device illustrated in Sections (a) and (b) of FIG. 4. The
imaging device according to the second embodiment and the imaging
device 1 according to the first embodiment have a common
configuration. Therefore, FIG. 1 is invoked. In this case, an
imaging device 1A according to the second embodiment includes a
camera-imaged image processing portion 7A to which a new function
is added.
[0091] The imaging device 1 according to the above first embodiment
can capture an image only by performing an operation on the
shutter-icon 31. However, the imaging device 1A according to the
second embodiment can capture an image by designating a preview
image to be focused, in addition to performing the operation on the
shutter 31. For example, the finger 20 is brought to midair of a
preview image (representing, e.g., the object 40) and moved
downwardly to a position, the distance to which from the touch
panel portion 2 is equal to or less than Zc. Next, a rectangular
focus mark 50 is displayed at the position. Then, the camera-imaged
image processing portion 7 performs the focus-adjustment and starts
imaging an image. Designating a preview image to be focused enables
imaging an image under a condition in which the preview image is
brought into focus. In a case of operating the shutter-icon 31,
imaging an image that is wholly in focus can be achieved.
Incidentally, as described above, when a both-hand operation is
performed, the shutter-icon 31 is operated by a hand opposite to
the other hand holding the smartphone 30. Thus, a reaction distance
(i.e., a distance in Z-axis direction) at which the finger 20 of
the hand operating the smartphone can be detected is longer than
the reaction distance in the case of performing a one-hand
operation, so that Zc>Zb. However, this is not indispensable.
The reaction distances may be set so that Zc=Zb.
[0092] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating processing from start of
the camera function of the imaging device 1A according to the
second embodiment to display of a captured image. In FIG. 9, in
step S10, the camera-imaged image processing portion 7A starts the
camera function. When starting the camera function, in step S11,
the camera-imaged image processing portion 7A determines whether
the finger 20 of a user is present in midair of a preview image and
whether the distance between the touch panel portion 2 and the
finger 20 is Zc. At the determination, when the conditions are not
satisfied, the determination is repeated until the conditions are
satisfied. When the conditions are satisfied, in step S12,
focus-adjustment is performed on the camera 6. Then, the
camera-imaged image processing portion 7A starts capturing an image
to the ring buffer 8.
[0093] After starting capturing an image, in step S13, the
camera-imaged image processing portion 7A determines whether the
finger 20 touches the preview image. When the preview image is not
touched, the determination is repeated until the preview image is
touched. When the preview image is touched, in step S14, capturing
an image is finished, and the image just before the finger 20
touches the preview image (e.g., the image imaged several pieces
before the image imaged closest to timing of touching the
shutter-icon 31) is extracted. Then, in step S15, the extracted
image is stored in the memory card 9. When the extracted image is
stored in the memory card 9, in step S16, the image display control
portion 10 reads this image from the memory card 9 and displays the
read image on the liquid crystal portion 11. After the captured
image is displayed, the present processing is finished.
[0094] Accordingly, even the imaging device 1A according to the
second embodiment can capture camera-shake-free images.
[0095] Although a program describing processing illustrated in the
flowchart of FIG. 9 is stored in ROM in the imaging device 1A
according to the second embodiment, the imaging device 1A may be
configured such that the program can be distributed by being stored
into a storage medium such as a magnetic disk, an optical disc, a
magneto-optical disc, and a flash memory or that the program can be
downloaded utilizing an electric telecommunication line by being
stored in a server (not shown) on a network such as the
Internet.
Third Embodiment
[0096] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic
configuration of an imaging device according to a third embodiment
of the invention. In FIG. 10, each part common to the above
apparatuses illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 10 is designated with a same
reference numeral as used to a corresponding part of the imaging
device 1. The imaging device 60 according to the present embodiment
of the invention is mounted in a portable wireless device called a
smartphone. A communicative part of the imaging device, which
functions as a wireless device, is omitted.
[0097] In FIG. 10, the imaging device 60 according to the present
embodiment includes a camera-imaged image processing portion 61
that differs partially in the functions from the camera-imaged
image processing portion 7 of the imaging device 1 according to the
first embodiment. The imaging device 60 also includes an ordinary
buffer 62, instead of the ring buffer 8. Each of parts of the
imaging device 60, which are other than the camera-imaged image
processing portion 61 and the buffer 62, is the same as a
corresponding part of the imaging device 1. Therefore, description
of each part common to the imaging devices 1 and 60 is omitted.
[0098] The camera-imaged image processing portion 61 outputs to the
camera 6 control signals for performing auto-focus (i.e.,
focus-adjustment). In this case, auto-focus is performed onto a
predetermined area in the liquid crystal portion 11. The
predetermined area is, e.g., the center of an image. Incidentally,
the camera-imaged image processing portion 61 may be configured to
perform auto-exposure (i.e., exposure-adjustment), or
auto-white-balance (i.e., white-balance-adjustment), other than
auto-focus.
[0099] The camera-imaged image processing portion 61 also receives
imaged-image data consecutively output from the camera 6 and
outputs the image display control portion 10. The camera-imaged
image processing portion 61 also determines the finger proximity
from a coordinate signal corresponding to Z-axis direction among
coordinate signals output from the coordinate output portion 5.
Besides, the camera-imaged image processing portion 61 determines
whether a finger is present in midair of the shutter-icon (which is
displayed at a predetermined location on the liquid crystal portion
11 during the camera operates). When the finger is present in
midair (i.e., "shutter-icon midair") of the shutter-icon, the
camera-imaged image processing portion 61 determines a distance to
the finger. That is, a distance between the touch panel portion 2
and the finger is determined. When the finger is present in the
shutter-icon midair, the camera-imaged image processing portion 61
determines the distance to the finger. That is, the camera-imaged
image processing portion 61 determines the distance between the
touch panel portion 2 and the finger. At the determination, when
the distance is equal to or less than the first distance and more
than the second distance being less than the first distance, the
camera-imaged image processing portion 61 performs auto-focus on
the camera 6. Then, when the distance between the touch panel
portion 2 and the finger becomes equal to or less than the second
distance and equal to or more than 0, the camera-imaged image
processing portion 7 determines that the shutter-icon is depressed
(i.e., the shutter is released). The camera-imaged image processing
portion 61 makes the ring buffer 62 store imaged-image data of 1
frame output from the camera 6. The camera-imaged image processing
portion 7 also outputs imaged-image data stored in the buffer 62 to
the image display control portion 10 so that a user can recognize a
currently imaged image. Incidentally, when the finger touches the
shutter-icon, the distance between the touch panel portion 2 and
the finger is 0.
[0100] When an instruction for storing imaged-image data stored in
the buffer 62 is issued (this instruction is issued by a user), the
camera-imaged image processing portion 61 records, in the memory
card 9, the imaged-image data stored in the buffer 62.
[0101] The image display control portion 10 generates image signals
based on imaged-image data output from the camera-imaged image
processing portion 61, and outputs the generated image signals to
the liquid crystal portion 11 to display a preview image. The image
display control portion 10 also generates an image signal based on
imaged-image data read from the buffer 62 at image-capturing and
outputs the generated image signal to the liquid crystal portion 11
to display a captured image. Ina case of reading from the memory
card 9 the imaged-image data recorded in the memory card 9, the
image display control portion 10 generates an image signal based on
the imaged-image data and outputs the generated image signal to the
liquid crystal portion 11 to display a recorded image.
Incidentally, a nonvolatile memory, such as a flash memory, is used
as the memory card 9. Apparently, the memory card 9 is detachably
attached to the body of the apparatus. A volatile memory, such as a
dynamic random access memory (DRAM), is used as the ring buffer
62.
[0102] Thus, when the distance between the touch panel portion 2
and the finger is equal to or less than the first distance and more
than the second distance less than the first distance, the
camera-imaged image processing portion 61 performs auto-focus
(i.e., focus on a predetermined area). Then, when the distance
between the touch panel portion 2 and the finger becomes equal to
or less than the second distance and equal to or more than 0,
image-capturing is performed. Thus a captured image is displayed.
Accordingly, image-capturing can be achieved at the best timing (in
other words, image-capturing can be performed without missing an
image-capturing opportunity.)
[0103] Sections (a) and (b) of FIG. 11 are diagrams each
illustrating a manner of capturing an image by a smartphone 70
equipped with the imaging device 60 according to the present
embodiment. Section (a) illustrates a case where the finger 20 is
present in midair of a shutter-icon 71. Section (b) illustrates a
case where the finger 20 touches the shutter-icon 71. When the
distance Zb between the touch panel portion 2 and the finger 20 is
equal to or less than the first distance and exceeds the second
distance, auto-focus is performed. Then, when the finger 20 touches
the touch panel portion 2 (i.e., the distance Zb between the touch
panel portion 2 and the finger 20 becomes equal to or less than the
second distance and equal to or more than 0), image-capturing is
performed. Incidentally, in this example, focus-adjustment is
performed on the object 40 at the center of the screen of the
liquid crystal portion 11.
[0104] Next, an operation of the imaging device 60 according to the
present embodiment is described hereinafter.
[0105] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating processing from start of
a camera function of the imaging device 60 according to the present
embodiment to storage of a captured image. In FIG. 12, the
camera-imaged image processing portion 61 starts the camera
function in step S20. When starting the camera function, in step
S21, the camera-imaged image processing portion 61 determines
whether a user's finger 20 is present in midair of the shutter-icon
71 and whether the distance between the touch panel portion 2 and
the finger 20 is Zb. When the conditions are not satisfied in the
determination, the determination is repeated until the conditions
are satisfied. When the conditions are satisfied, in step S22, the
camera-imaged image processing portion 61 performs focus-adjustment
on the camera 6 and starts auto-focus on the camera 6.
[0106] After starting auto-focus, in step S23, the camera-imaged
image processing portion 61 determines whether the finger 20
touches the shutter-icon 71. When the shutter-icon 31 is not
touched, the present determination is repeated until the condition
is satisfied. When touched, in step S24, capturing the images is
performed. Then, the captured image is stored in the buffer 62, and
the stored captured image is displayed in the liquid crystal
portion 11. When a user's instruction for storing the captured
image is issued after the captured image is stored in the buffer 62
and displayed in the liquid crystal portion 11, in step S25, the
captured image is stored in the memory card 9. Then, the present
processing is finished.
[0107] Thus, when the distance between the touch panel portion 2
and the finger 20 is equal to or less than the first distance, and
more than the second distance being less than the first distance,
the imaging device 60 according to the third embodiment performs
auto-focus onto a predetermined area in the liquid crystal portion
11. Then, when the distance between the touch panel portion 2 and
the finger 20 is equal to or less than the second distance and
equal to or more than 0, image-capturing is performed, and a
captured image is displayed. Accordingly, image-capturing can be
performed at the best timing (i.e., image-capturing can be
performed without missing an image-capturing opportunity).
[0108] Although a program describing processing illustrated in the
flowchart of FIG. 12 is stored in ROM in the imaging device 60
according to the third embodiment, the imaging device 60 may be
configured such that the program can be distributed by being stored
into a storage medium such as a magnetic disk, an optical disc, a
magneto-optical disc, and a flash memory or that the program can be
downloaded utilizing an electric telecommunication line by being
stored in a server (not shown) on a network such as the
Internet.
Fourth Embodiment
[0109] Although the above imaging device 60 according to the third
embodiment performs auto-focus onto the predetermined area in the
liquid crystal portion 11, an imaging device according to a fourth
embodiment is capable of performing auto-focus onto an area of a
preview image, which corresponds to an indicator. Incidentally, the
imaging device according to the fourth embodiment of the invention
and the imaging device 60 according to the third embodiment of the
invention have common components. Thus, FIG. 10 is invoked. The
imaging device according to the fourth embodiment is designated
with reference numeral 60A. Incidentally, because a camera-imaged
image processing portion according to the fourth embodiment
slightly differs in function from the camera-imaged image
processing portion 61 of the imaging device 60 according to the
third embodiment. Thus, the camera-imaged image processing portion
according to the fourth embodiment is designated with reference
numeral 61A.
[0110] When a finger serving as an indicator enters a range in
which the distance to the finger from the touch panel portion 2 is
larger than the second distance and equal to or less than the first
distance, the camera-imaged image processing portion 61A of the
imaging device 60A according to the present embodiment performs
auto-focus onto an area of a preview image, which corresponds to
the finger, in a preview image. Then, when the finger enters a
range in which the distance from the surface of the touch panel
portion 2 is equal to or less than the second distance,
image-capturing is performed.
[0111] Sections (a) and (b) of FIG. 13 are diagrams each
illustrating a manner of capturing an image by the smartphone 70
equipped with the imaging device 60A according to the fourth
embodiment of the invention. Section (a) illustrates a case where
the finger 20 is present in midair of an associated area of a
preview image (e.g., a head portion of the object 40 in a preview
image). Section (b) illustrates a case where the finger 20 touches
the associated area of the preview image. When the finger 20 enters
a range where the distance Zc between the touch panel portion 2 and
the finger 20 is equal to or less than the first distance and
exceeds the second distance, a rectangular focus mark 50 is thus
displayed on an area of the preview image, which corresponds to the
finger 20. Then, auto-focus is performed. After that, when the
finger 20 touches the touch panel portion 2 (i.e., when the
distance Zc between the touch panel portion 2 and the finger 20
becomes equal to or less than the second distance and equal to or
more than 0), image-capturing is performed. Incidentally, even the
imaging device 60A according to the present embodiment can perform
image-capturing by operating the shutter-icon 71, similarly to the
above imaging device 60 according to the third embodiment.
[0112] FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating processing from start of
a camera function of the imaging device 60A according to the fourth
embodiment of the invention to storage of a captured image. In FIG.
14, the camera-imaged image processing portion 61A starts the
camera function in step S30. When starting the camera function, in
step S31, the camera-imaged image processing portion 61A determines
whether a user's finger 20 is present in midair of the preview
image and whether the distance between the touch panel portion 2
and the finger 20 is Zc. When the conditions are not satisfied in
the determination, the determination is repeated until the
conditions are satisfied. When the conditions are satisfied, in
step S32, the camera-imaged image processing portion 61A starts
auto-focus on the camera 6.
[0113] After starting auto-focus, in step S33, the camera-imaged
image processing portion 61A determines whether the finger 20
touches the preview image. When the preview image is not touched,
the present determination is repeated until the condition is
satisfied. When touched, in step S34, image-capturing is performed,
and a captured image is stored in the buffer 62 and displayed on
the liquid crystal portion 11. After the captured image is stored
in the buffer 62 and displayed on the liquid crystal portion 11,
when an instruction for storing the captured image is issued by a
user in step S35, the captured image is stored in the memory card
9. Then, the present processing is finished.
[0114] Thus, when the distance between the touch panel portion 2
and the finger 20 is equal to or less than the first distance, and
more than the second distance being less than the first distance,
the imaging device 60A according to the fourth embodiment performs
auto-focus (what is called manual tracking of an object) onto a
predetermined area corresponding to the finger in the preview
image. Then, when the distance between the touch panel portion 2
and the finger 20 is equal to or less than the second distance and
equal to or more than 0, image-capturing is performed, and a
captured image is displayed. Accordingly, image-capturing can be
performed at the best timing (i.e., image-capturing can be
performed without missing an image-capturing opportunity).
Especially, in a case where an object frequently moves, the
invention is effective.
[0115] Although a program describing processing illustrated in the
flowchart of FIG. 14 is stored in ROM in the imaging device 60A
according to the fourth embodiment, the imaging device 60A may be
configured such that the program can be distributed by being stored
into a storage medium such as a magnetic disk, an optical disc, a
magneto-optical disc, and a flash memory or that the program can be
downloaded utilizing an electric telecommunication line by being
stored in a server (not shown) on a network such as the
Internet.
Fifth Embodiment
[0116] FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic
configuration of an imaging device according to a fifth embodiment
of the invention. The imaging device 80 according to the present
embodiment of the invention is mounted in a portable wireless
device called a smartphone. A communicative part of the imaging
device, which functions as a wireless device, is omitted.
Incidentally, the imaging device 80 according to the fifth
embodiment and that 60 according to the third embodiment
fundamentally employ a common configuration. However, the
camera-imaged image processing portion and the image display
control portion of the imaging device 80 according to the fifth
embodiment slightly differ in function from the camera-imaged image
processing portion 61 and the image display control portion 10 of
the imaging device 60 according to the third embodiment,
respectively. Thus, the camera-imaged image processing portion of
the imaging device 80 is designated with reference numeral 81. The
image display control portion 10 of the imaging device 80 is
designated with reference numeral 10A.
[0117] The camera-imaged image processing portion 81 of the imaging
device 80 according to the fifth embodiment includes a timer 811
and determines using the timer 811 whether a state, in which the
distance between the touch panel portion 2 and a finger serving as
an indicator is equal to or less than the first distance and more
than the second distance being less than the first distance, is
continued for a predetermined time. When this state is continued
for the predetermined time, image-capturing is performed, and a
captured image is displayed in the liquid crystal portion 11.
According to this function, image-capturing can be performed only
by keeping the finger placed in a range in which the distance from
the touch panel portion 2 is larger than the second distance and
equal to and smaller than the first distance, for the predetermined
time. Thus, operability is enhanced. In this case, while the finger
is placed in the range, at least auto-focus is performed. Although
the captured image is stored once in the buffer 62, the captured
image is stored in the memory card 9 by a user's operation.
[0118] During image-capturing, the camera-imaged image processing
portion 81 controls the image display control portion 10A to make
the liquid crystal portion 11 indicate that image-capturing-timing
is approaching. The indication is schematically performed, for
example, in the following manner. Sections (a) to (d) of FIG. 16
are diagrams illustrating an example of schematically indicating
that image-capturing timing is approaching. In FIG. 16, an icon 100
including two arrows 101 and 102 opposed to each other is displayed
at a lower part of an image. The two arrows 101 and 102 are
approaching each other as time passes. The two arrows 101 and 102
of the icon 100 change, as illustrated in Sections (a) to (c) in
this order. Section (c) illustrates an indication in a case that a
predetermined time has come. When this indication is displayed,
image-capturing is performed (i.e., the shutter is released).
Section (d) illustrates a captured image. Thus, it is schematically
indicated that image-capturing timing is approaching. Consequently,
users can know image-capturing timing. Accordingly, users can
perform image-capturing at the best timing (in other words,
image-capturing can be achieved without missing an image-capturing
opportunity). Incidentally, vocal guidance may be performed,
instead of the schematic indication. Alternatively, the schematic
indication and the vocal guidance may be combined with each other.
It may be cited as an example of the vocal guidance that the
shutter will be released soon.
[0119] FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating processing from reset of
a timer of the imaging device 80 according to the present
embodiment to storage of a captured image. In FIG. 17, the
camera-imaged image processing portion 81 resets a timer 811
thereof in step S40. Next, in step S41, the camera-imaged image
processing portion 81 determines whether the distance between the
touch panel portion 2 and the finger 20 serving as the indicator is
equal to or less than the first distance Z1 and more than the
second distance Z0 less than the first distance value. When the
following condition doesn't hold: Z1.gtoreq.the distance>Z0, the
camera-imaged image processing portion 81 returns to step S40. When
the condition holds: Z1.gtoreq.the distance>Z0, in step S42, the
camera-imaged image processing portion 81 starts the timer 811.
[0120] After starting the timer 811 when the condition holds:
Z1.gtoreq.the distance>Z0, the camera-imaged image processing
portion 81 makes determination concerning the conditions that are
the same as those in step S41, again. That is, in step S43, the
camera-imaged image processing portion 81 determines whether the
distance between the touch panel portion 2 and the finger 20 is
equal to or less than the first distance Z1 and whether the
distance therebetween is larger than the second distance Z0 which
is smaller than the first distance Z1. When the following condition
doesn't hold: Z1.gtoreq.the distance>Z0, the camera-imaged image
processing portion 81 returns to step S40. When the condition
holds: Z1.gtoreq.the distance>Z0, in step S44, the camera-imaged
image processing portion 81 determines, based on the count-value of
the timer 811, whether a predetermined time has elapsed. When the
predetermined time hasn't elapsed, the camera-imaged image
processing portion 81 returns to step S43. When the predetermined
time has elapsed, in step S45, image-capturing is performed. Next,
in step S46, a captured image is stored in the buffer 62, and the
stored image is displayed in the liquid crystal portion 11. After
the captured image is stored in the buffer 62 and displayed in the
liquid crystal portion 11, when a user's instruction to store the
captured image is issued, in step S47, the captured image is stored
in the memory card 9. Then, the present processing is finished.
[0121] Thus, when a state, in which the distance between the touch
panel portion 2 and the finger 20 serving as the indicator is equal
to and less than the first distance and more than the second
distance being less than the first distance, is continued for a
predetermined time, the imaging device 80 according to the fifth
embodiment performs image-capturing. Consequently, operability can
be improved. Image-capturing can be performed at the best timing
(i.e., image-capturing can be achieved without missing an
image-capturing opportunity).
[0122] Although a program describing processing illustrated in the
flowchart of FIG. 17 is stored in ROM in the imaging device 80
according to the fifth embodiment, the imaging device 80 may be
configured such that the program can be distributed by being stored
into a storage medium such as a magnetic disk, an optical disc, a
magneto-optical disc, and a flash memory or that the program can be
downloaded utilizing an electric telecommunication line by being
stored in a server (not shown) on a network such as the
Internet.
[0123] The invention has been described in detail with reference to
specific embodiments. However, it is apparent to those skilled in
the art that various modifications and alterations can be made
without departing from the spirit and the scope of the
invention.
[0124] Incidentally, the present application is based on Japanese
Patent Application (Japanese Patent Application No. 2012-18921)
filed on May 24, 2012 and Japanese Patent Application (Japanese
Patent Application No. 2012-149601) filed on Jul. 3, 2012 the
contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0125] The invention has an advantage that a camera-shake-free
image can be captured. The invention can be applied to a portable
information terminal, such as a smartphone, equipped with an
electrostatic-capacitance touch panel.
DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE NUMERALS AND SIGNS
[0126] 1, 1A, 60, 60A, 80 imaging devices [0127] 2 touch panel
portion [0128] 3 touch panel controller [0129] 4
power-supply-and-control portion [0130] 5 coordinate output portion
[0131] 6 camera [0132] 7, 7A, 61, 61A, 81 camera-imaged image
processing portions [0133] 8 ring buffer [0134] 9 memory card
[0135] 10, 10A image display control portion [0136] 11 liquid
crystal portion [0137] 15 touch panel module [0138] 20 finger
[0139] 30, 70 smartphones [0140] 31, 71 shutter-icons [0141] 40
object [0142] 50 focus mark [0143] 62 buffer [0144] 811 timer
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